Derry schools unite through Japanese arts in the Yūjō Taiko Project

Drumming up friendship and cultural connection, students from Derry's Fountain Primary School and Gaelscoil Éadain Mhóir recently came together to celebrate through the Yūjō Taiko Project - an initiative blending the power of taiko drumming, origami, and Japanese culture.

Delivered by Foyle Obon, a local charity that uses Japanese arts to promote health, wellbeing, and peacebuilding across the Northwest, the project gave young people a chance to explore new traditions, make new friends, and build understanding across communities through rhythm, art, and fun.

The programme was funded by the Community Relations Council’s Cultural Diversity Fund, which supports initiatives that develop respect, inclusion, and shared cultural experiences across Northern Ireland.

Over six weeks, pupils learned the powerful rhythms of taiko drumming, created fun origami pieces, and discovered the values of teamwork, friendship (yūjō), and peace. The project offered a joyful, hands-on way for children to learn about another culture while developing empathy and community spirit.

“It was wonderful to see the young people come together, make friends, and experience the joy of Japanese arts,” said Fiona Umetsu, Artistic Director of Foyle Obon.

“Projects like our Yūjō Taiko programme show how arts and creativity can improve wellbeing, build bridges and inspire peace from the ground up.”

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For more information about Foyle Obon and their community work, visit www.foyleobon.com.